Local Area & Attractions

The Mountain Road from Rhyader

The Mountain Road from Rhayader

The mountain road takes you through some interesting historical areas, open moorland, and the deep valleys which were formed by the glaciers of the Ice Age. This road was rated by the AA as one of the most spectacular routes in Europe.

When leaving Rhayader on the mountain road you enter the picturesque Elan Valley, known as the lakeland of Wales with its breathtaking landscape, reservoirs and waterfalls - a paradise for walkers and fishermen. The visitor centre tells the story of how the reservoirs and dams were built at the end of 19th century, and the spectacular wildlife in the area.

Whilst driving along the mountain road, one becomes aware of the scars left by lead mining. Archaeological evidence shows that copper was mined on Copa Hill during the Bronze Age and cairns, where they buried their dead, can still be traced on the surrounding hills. In 2002, while investigating a medieval lead smelting hearth in the lead mine at Cwmystwyth, the archaeologists unearthed a gold sun disc, believed to be the earliest gold artefact discovered in Wales. It is now at the National Museums and Gardens of Wales, Cardiff.

The road also passes the historic landscape of Hafod Mansion, and the Arch which was built by Thomas Johnes to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of George III. The Arch marks the highest point of the Hafod Estate. The walks here incorporate some spectacular views, with interpretation boards providing information on the agriculture, forestry, wildlife and the history of this immediate area.

Hafod is known as a 'paradise for walkers', with many forest paths, streams and bridges. The Hafod estate occupies some 200 hectares of the Ystwyth valley and surrounding hills. Most is owned by the Forestry Commission who, in partnership with the Hafod Trust, manage a conservation and restoration project with public and private funding. More information can be found on the Hafod website.

Eglwys Newydd Hafod Church, dedicated to St. Michael and All Angels is situated in a quiet, isolated but picturesque area on the boundary of the enchanting Hafod Estate. Thomas Johnes, in 1803 commissioned James Wyatt to designed an impressive new church with many unusual features, such as the ‘east’ window to face south-west, with sixteenth century Flemish stained glass brought over from the Low Countries.The font commissioned from the famous London studios of Eleanor Coade, and decorated with carved roses, the Johnes Coat of Arms and figures representing the cardinal virtues. It was indeed a beautiful Gothic Church.

Tragically, in April 1932 a fire destroyed much of the charming internal fittings and roof. The excellent restoration work was overseen by W. D. Caroe, who designed the new attractive barrel shaped limed-oak roof and the beautiful furnishings and fittings which feature around some of the original treasures, although damaged they are still to be seen at the church today.
This beautiful listed grade II* building has again recently been extensively restored and internally refurbished.

There is now an interesting display of interpretation panels depicting the history of the Church and the Hafod Estate. Much social history has been researched by church members and the local community; there is also a touch screen kiosk which enables visitors seeking family history to easily locate their local family details. The church (with the use of public convenience) is open every day between 10.00 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. from Easter to the end of October.

Devils Bridge Falls is a world famous tourist attraction 12 miles from Aberystwyth. These unique waterfalls have attracted many thousands of visitors since the 18th century, including William Wordsworth who wrote about the "Torrent at the Devil's Bridge". Today, the Falls Nature Trail provides a unique opportunity to see this great natural feature in the Rheidol Gorge.

Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Centre is a little piece of heaven in the Cambrian Mountains. From scenic walks and world class mountain biking to adventure play areas and Animal Puzzle Trail. Red Kites are fed daily, and can be viewed from the café with a breathtaking lakeside view.

Steeped in myths and legends, high in the ancient Cambrian Mountains, the Silver Mountain Experience has tumbling streams, mysterious forests and long abandoned mine workings that will take you on a journey through the mists of time.

Cambrian Safaris provides excursions into the Cambrian Mountains in a Land Rover Discovery. ​Come and enjoy fantastic views and scenery, local history and wildlife. We will pick you up from your accommodation or arrange a meeting point.

4x4 Safaris in the Cambrian Mountains

4x4 Safaris in the Cambrian Mountains

Enjoying Hafod Estate

Aberystwyth

The cosmopolitan University town of Aberystwyth is only 17 miles away. Sat on the coast with several beaches, shops, cafes, restaurants and lively nightlife it is the perfect place to explore with the added bonus of possibly spotting a dolphin or a porpoise in the bay.